COVID-19 pandemic

Vehicle importers demand port fare exemption

Motor vehicle importers have urged the government to exempt port fare as the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread in the country.

According to UNB, they also sought suspension of car auction until December next considering the situation.

The Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (Barvida) made the demand in a statement on Monday.

Barvida said vehicle importers bring in motor vehicles through Mongla and Chattogram ports.

“Barvida requests the government to exempt the port fare and the customs authorities to suspend the vehicle auction activities until December this year,” the statement said, adding that banks are requested to lower the interest of the already taken loans by the vehicle importers.

Barvida also urged the government to ensure the importers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) get loans at lower interest alongside the export-oriented industries.

The association also welcomed the government’s announcement of the stimulus packages of Tk 727.50 billion, describing the package as a timely step to overcome the negative impacts of coronavirus on the country’s economy.

It thanked the government and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for such an economic plan.